Collecting community resources has been an important part of my experience throughout the program. Organizing these resources at the local, state, and national levels has helped me grow as a practitioner and deepen my understanding of the services available to the D/deaf community I will be working with. The organizations in my current community—both locally and in my home state of Washington—have helped me build meaningful connections with Deaf community members. Through my involvement with several of these organizations, I have been able to volunteer, socialize, and engage with the community, enriching both my learning and personal growth. I hold these connections dearly and appreciate the organizations that facilitated my involvement.

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As a future practitioner, being able to identify and provide resources is directly tied to the NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct (CPC). Illustrative Behavior 2.6 calls for interpreters to “judiciously provide information or referral regarding available interpreting or community resources without infringing upon consumers’ rights” (RID, 2005). Developing awareness of these resources allows me to uphold this standard ethically and appropriately. It also ensures that I can offer relevant referrals or information when needed, while respecting consumer autonomy.

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My active search for community resources has also supported my own learning by helping me understand the broader context in which interpreting services exist. Because I have routinely used these resources myself, I feel confident in my ability to locate, evaluate, and organize information that may benefit consumers. I have also built a strong network of social channels by subscribing to newsletters, following community-focused organizations and leaders on social media, and staying connected with peers and colleagues. These habits ensure that I remain aware of new or evolving resources that may be useful in my future practice.

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Collecting and maintaining community resources will be an ongoing process, as services and community needs continually shift. However, I have built systems and supports that will help me sustain this practice and continue expanding my knowledge throughout my career.

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Reference: 

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. (2005). NAD-RID code of professional conduct. https://rid.org/programs/ethics/code-of-

professional-conduct/

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